Culture

Japanese artist creates impressive animal balloon art

A Japanese artist has burst onto the scene with incredible works of balloon art.

Mostly seen at children's birthday parties, Masayoshi Matsumoto has used the technique of blowing and twisting to create animals, plant life and characters using only balloons. He insists permanent markers and adhesive are not used in the process.

The intricate pieces — some with tiny balloons for eyeballs — are collected on the Tokyo-based artist's Tumblr page. It's wonderful.

Dinosaur.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Jellyfish using neon balloons.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Goldfish.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Griffon: The body of a lion, the head and wings of an eagle.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Iguana.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Goat.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Mayfly.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Mandrill.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Owl.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Flamingo.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Chameleon.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Plant-type monster.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Seahorse.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Mouse.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Turtle.

Image: Masayoshi Matsumoto

Balloon art has become more popular in Japan during the last few years, with twisting conferences, classes and stores popping up around town. The decorative art is also making appearances more commonly at weddings — not just in the decor, but occasionally in the bridal outfits.

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